Safety First

We take the safety and comfort of our staff, performers, and audiences seriously.
  • When: If the weather is too poor or dangerous to perform in, the decision to cancel (or to relocate to an indoor venue if available) will be made anywhere from 2-4 hours ahead of a show.
  • ​How: Any concerns you may have about the weather are likely already shared and being considered by the leadership team and Stage Manager so please do not text your Stage Manager asking about a weather call. No news means no change to the plan and the show will go ahead.

   In the case of rain, we consider:
  • The weather as forecasted by Environment Canada;
  • Satellite imagery tracking the weather system;
  • The surface upon which the show will be performed and the footwear worn by the performers;
  • The speed at which performers are required to move in the performance.
  • In general, we cancel for rain unless an indoor venue has been secured. 
  • We may decide to go ahead if the forecast calls for light rain or sun-showers.
  • In the event that a performance goes ahead and we get heavy rain, we will pause the performance for 10 minutes to see if the weather will pass.
  • If the rain continues, or if the performance surface is too wet to continue, we will cancel the rest of the show.

In the case of strong wind, we consider:
  • The weather as forecasted by Environment Canada;
  • Satellite imagery tracking the weather system;
  • The safety of staff, volunteers, and audiences traveling to and from the performance;
  • Wind shelter at the performance venue;
  • Any unsecured items at or near the performance site;
  • Audibility.
  • It is rare that we cancel for wind, but we may do so if gusts above 70 km/hr are forecast for showtime.

In the case of extreme heat, we consider:
  • The weather as forecasted by Environment Canada, including Humidex;
  • The presence of relieving breezes at the venue;
  • Shade vs. direct sunlight;
  • Non-optional costume pieces that are particularly heavy (if you are given wool or fake fur to wear, we will attempt to give you a ‘hot weather’ option, but this may not always be possible).
  • After consulting policies from other outdoor theatre companies across North America, we have decided that in 2026 we will cancel performances when it ‘feels like’ (ie., with humidity) 28C at the show venue, at showtime. 
  • If it is 28C at 4pm but expected to cool off in the evening, we will proceed with the show.

In the case of air quality, we consider:
  • The weather as forecasted by Environment Canada
  • The air quality and wildfire activity
  • If air quality is “Good” (0-50): Actors will be called‬‭ and the rehearsal/performance will‬ proceed as planned. Stage management will continue to monitor AQI throughout the‬ ‭ performance.
  • If air quality is “Moderate” (50-100):‬ Actors will‬‭ be called and the‬ rehearsal/performance will proceed as planned. Stage management will continue to monitor AQI throughout the performance.  If the AQI is Moderate for multiple successive‬ days, or if the company expects to be outdoors for a full day of rehearsal, cast and crew‬ will be required to wear N95 masks or the equivalent to prevent cumulative effects.‬
  • If air quality is “Unhealthy for sensitive groups” (100 - 150):‬  Stage management will‬ check in with cast and crew on whether they are part of a sensitive group and/or‬ experiencing health effects.
  • If a member of the cast and crew is unable to perform due to‬ health concerns, stage management will consult with festival leadership, and rehearsal/performance may be canceled.
  • If a viable understudy/alternate solution can be found the performance may go ahead. 
  • All will be required to wear N95 masks or‬ the equivalent.‬
  • Please indicate on your Health & Accessibility form any accessibility needs in this area.